This novel is described as a coming-of-age story. Do you agree with this? Did you notice any changes in Scout throughout the course of this novel, in particular this week's section? Do you notice any similarities between Scout's childhood and your own? Also, since this is the last week, what are your overall impressions of the book? Emma 18.05.09
I don't think that the novel is really a bildungsroman, as it is uses Scout's innocence and subsequent loss of innocence as a vehicle rather than the actual focal point of the story. The book is decent. It's a fairly unoriginal book, in terms of subject matter and use of language, but it probably does deserve the title "American Classic" because it seems to capture the mood and mores of the time. The best part was the contrasting characters.
I don't really agree with it being a coming of age story however I did notice changes in Scouts behaviour throughout the course of the novel, as it progressed she seemed to understand more what was going on around her and how to act approprietly during certain moments when which it was called for. I don't really notice very many similarities betweent scouts childhood and my own because I did not grow up around a dad or a brother and not in an environment like that due to now being a different time then back then. My overall impressions of the book was that it was pretty good and and very well written. Jessie 05/20/09 10:15pm
I agree with you Jessie I don't see this book as a something that will happen in the future (coming of age). Scouts behaviour changed quite a bit as we proceeded though the novel. Scout was introduced to us in the first six chapters of the novel she was ill mannered, unladylike, and a tomboy. Even though she was remained a tomboy throughout the novel, she grew into girlhood a little more. I was not like Scout at all when I was a child I was pretty well behave, but you know we all have had our times when we are ill mannered. I don't exactly see any similarities between my childhood and Scouts. My overall impressions of this book, is it was well written. I enjoyed the book and I actually wanted to sit down and read my chapters every week. It was full of conflict and action, and this novel kind of gave us an idea of what blacks went through years back.. Karen 05/21/09
I sort of do see this book as being a coming of age story, but more from the perspective of how times evolved and what happened throughout the story. Scout, to me, loses her innocence a fair bit because of all she sees and hears. Towards the end of the book we see her trying harder to be more lady-like and mature, mostly around her aunt and her aunt's friends. I really enjoyed this book, i'd been told that it was terrible and so on, but i loved it and i never got bored of it. So much happens throughout that it just makes you want to keep reading! Michelle 22/05/09
I have to agree that the main focus of the book was not Scout's growing up but more about prejudice and racial injustice. Scout's childhood was similar to my own in a sense what I was a bit of a tom-boy as a child but have mostly grown out of it. I noticed that by the end of the book Scout has lost most of her faith in the goodness of Maycomb County, but she never loses the good morals that Atticus teaches her. The most noticeable change in Scout's behaviour is when she joins Aunt Alexandra and her guests for tea. She really starts to give up on her tom-boy ways and adopt more feminine ones here. This book was probably the best novel I have read for a class, and I think I would have read it even if it was not required. It doesn't really stand out but I think it was written quite well and got its message across clearly. Emma 23/05/09
Scout's childhood was also similar to my own, only because i mostly played with boys. I have also changed my ways but i still have a bit of tom-boy left in me. i think if we could see Scout ten or so years later, i think you would find that she had be come more lady-like and feminine but also still had some tom-boy left in her as well. I was thinking it might be interesting if the author had written a book from one of the other character's perspectives, maybe Tom or Jem for example, just to see the situations through the eyes of someone other than Scout. But i still did throughly enjoy this novel. michelle 24/05/09
I did not think that I would enjoy reading this novel before I actaully started reading the book. I thought the author did a spectacular job describing the characters and the scenes as we progressed through the novel. I'd also been told that this was such a terrible book and so on, just like mitchelle said earlier. There is nothing wrong with this book. I enjoyed reading my chapters every week, probably one of the best books I have read for school. Karen 24/05/09
What is your opinon about the whole Tom Robinson trial? What do you think about what Mayella Ewell testified to the court? At what point did Atticus realize that Mayella Ewell was lying? What was the statement? Who do you think is the most honest person that spoke at the trial? Karen 11/04/09
My opinion on the Tom Robinson trial is that it was unfair from the beginning. Tom never had a chance and no one really listened, they just always assumed he was lying because of his skin colour. I find Mayella Ewells statements were forced and unbelievable and she seemed to hesitate when he asked if her father beat her which makes the reader assume something different then what she was saying. I also think he assumed she was lying when she couldn't reply if Tom Robinson had beat her on the face, at that point the book stated he lost his comfortableness and became detached and so on. I think the most believable was Tom Robinson himself because he answered all the questions and they made a lot of sense. He seemed like an honest and caring man and I just felt more sympathy for him. jessie 13/04/09 9:35pm
The results of the trail are fairly obvious right from the start. The segregation within the very courthouse show clearly how firmly entrenched racial inequity is in the minds of the people of Maycomb. It is pretty clear that Mayella and Bob Ewell have fabricated essentially the entire testimony. Tom Robinson and Heck Tate both appear to tell the truth. The courthouse sequence is the only scene where we really see anything of Tom. It seems to me he remains a flat character throughout the novel. Evan 14/05 20:50
Tom Robinson's trial made me very upset, although I do agree that it was obvious what would happen. Still, the idea that a very clearly innocent man was sent to jail simply because of his race is extremely troubling. Mayella Ewell's testament made me angry, but I can understand that she was is scared of her father and does not want him to continue beating her. I could tell she was lying the whole time, but it was especially clear on page 179 when she begins crying as soon as he asks her what happened. Both Tom Robinson and Heck Tate are very honest during the entire trial, and did not hesitate in their testimony. Emma 15/05/2009
Yes I agree with all of you Tom Robinsons trial is quite crazy, it is quite obvious that Mayella was lying. As Emma said on page 179, that she soon as she was asked what happened. Of course some people may say well, maybe she was emotional because it was hard for her to tell the story or something like that. The reason that Mayella was beaten and had a black eye was because Bob Ewell caught Tom Robinson leaving the house. I found it quite suspicious that Bob Ewell never called the doctor if his daughter claimed that she was raped, that does seem quite odd. The Tom Robinson's trial made me upset and dissappointed, cause they basically took the advice from a white free girl and fabricated and made this whole story up cause they knew that it would be possible to make people in the community believe that a black man like Tom Robinson would do such a crime. Tom Robinson when asked to come and testify and give his side of the story he gave it without hesitation. He explained how Mayella was coming onto him and he tried to get away, it was all Mayella. Mayella was the one with the lustful eyes, and he explained how he never pushed her, because Tom Robinson knew if he did that would be something that she could use against him. I think the reason that Mayella started this whole trial was because it was her dad that was beating her, and she didn't want to deal with it anymore. It was like she had taken this abuse for 19 years and it was about time that it come to an end. Mayella is going about it all the wrong ways to finding a solution. Karen Love 17/05/09 4:20 PM
I agree. The fact that no doctor was called is a very important part of the innocence of Tom Robinson. If anything had really happened between Tom and Mayella, Bob Ewell would certainly have called in a doctor. One thing I am very curious about regarding the trial is what Mayella is feeling during the whole thing. She probably cares a lot about Tom if she decided to risk her reputation by kissing him. Seeing Tom get convicted of a capital offense because of her cowardice must have a lot of effect on her. I don't think the author develops Mayella's character enough in this aspect, as I am left wondering. Emma 17.05.09
From the beginning of the trial i could almost see the direction the end result would take. With Mayella getting so emotional, someone back then who didn't know any better would probably have believed her, it was also in her favour that Tom Robinson is black. To me Bob Ewell answered the questions in such a way that it was obvious that he was lying. It is said that he isn't exactly the brightest star in the sky but all that but aside, his answers weren't nearly as well thought out as Tom's. Tom's actually made sense through out the whole trial. The only part where i can see the jury actually finding something to put against him is the fact that he ran away. Although, if i was an african-american in that time, i would have run too. Michelle 17/05/09
I think Atticus knew Mayella was lying when he asked "Then why didn't the other children hear you? Where were they? At the Dump?". Mayella did not respond to the questions whatsoever. Then he asked "Did you scream first at your father instead of at Tom Robinson? Was that it?". Still no answer. Then finally Atticus came right out and asked if it was her father that had beaten her and not Tom Robinson. The author says that Mayella's face was a mixture of terror and fury which leads Atticus to believe she is lying. Michelle 17/05/09
Mayella to me seems to be a tragic character. I think she sees Tom Robinson as a legitimate sacrifice to protect her dignity in the eyes of the community (if there is any to begin with). The situation is not her fault, and in terms of testifying against an innocent [black] man, she is doing what just about anyone else in the community would do. Atticus says that "The one thing that doesn’t abide by majority rule is a person’s conscience" in Chapter 11, but this is not really a fair assessment, as people are more or less a product of their environment.
When Aunt Alexandra moves in with the Finch's do you think she really wants to be there or do you think she thinks she needs to be there to make sure the Finch children grow up properly? Do you think it will make a good difference with the children or do you think it will not make a difference at all towards the behaviour of both Finch children? jessie 05/04/09 11: 00pm
I don't think Aunt Alexandra wants to be there so much as she feels she needs to be there. From what i gather, she strongly feels the need to turn Scout into more of a lady and break her boy-like habits. Also i think she feels she needs to teach the children who they are and where they come from. She brings over family members that Scout did not even know existed. For example on page 132 when Aunt Alexandra tells Scout to say hello to her cousin Lily and Scout has no idea that they are even related. Her being there,i think, will not change the children but give them more of a sense of the Finch family and what it means to be a Finch. Michelle 06/05/09
In my opinion I do see Aunt Alexandra as being the type of person that just wants to intervene in other peoples business. Really she doesn't have this right. I don't think that Aunt Alexandra really wants to be at the Finches house, she may think that she is doing some good but really her presence at the Finch household has no meaning. I think maybe Attticus might of had been offended when Aunt Alexandra tried to come and tell him how to raise his children. I would of had been, if I were him. Well in chapter 13 it explains how Aunt Alexandra was like a perfect child and grew up in a very strict home. She had a good education and she spoke only when spoken to. That was what she expected from Scout and nothing other. Thatwas the main reason why she cam to the Finch's household. Honestly I don't believe that having Aunt Alexandra over made that much of a difference, well only in the sense that she would know who is related to her. I agree with the person who posted above, the only thing that would change is the Finch's would have an understanding of what it means to be a Finch. Karen 7/05/2009
I think that Alexandra is there of her own volition, even though she doesn't actually want to be there. She thinks that she is doing what has to be done. I don't think that this will really affect Scout, but it does seem to have some effect on Jem. Evan 7/05/2009
Aunt Alexandra was definitely not invited over to the Finch house, but I don't think that Atticus would ever tell her to leave. She probably thinks that they need her help and that she is doing them a big favour. I do not think that she is much help, mainly because her version of a good family image is much different than mine. I agree that Jem seems to begin to change his ways in favour of Aunt Alexandra, but Scout does not listen to her whatsoever. She knows that Alexandra is behind all of the discussions that Atticus has with her about their reputation. We see this on page 134 when Scout says "My father never thought these thoughts. My father never spoke so. Aunt Alexandra had put him up to this, somehow." I think that Aunt Alexandra will have the opposite effect that she desires on Scout and will cause Scout to go out of her way to be more of a tom-boy as a rebellion towards her. Emma 7/05/2009 10:06
I agree with a lot of things that were said above. Aunt Alexandra seems like she is there because she thinks its her duty to teach the children better behaviour and be there to play the female role which thinks has been missing, oblivious to calpurnia being there in the picture. I don't think it will change the Finch's too much considering they don't really want her to be there so i think it will make them be more rebellious too. The reason i think Jem has changed is because hes older and and he looks up to Atticus, not because of Aunt Alexandra being there. He respects Atticus who respects Aunt Alexandra so he follows his fathers lead and wants to seem more mature and grown up, also because hes getting older hes understanding more how to treat people and women and the meaning of respect. I don't think Scout will really ever change because she's so stubborn, but I don't think she will be so rude to her aunt later because she too respects her father and even her brother. Like you all said it will help them learn more about the Finch's and i think thats one of the good things that coming out of her being there so far. jessie 07/05/09 11:43pm
I think that in the story Alexandra represents many of the values which Atticus is trying to change. Her entire persona is entrenched in the archetypal southern woman. Her belief in the importance of old families and old land contrasts starkly with Scout's and Atticus' outlook on life. She clearly disapproves of most of the things Atticus does, and the things he teaches to his children. Evan 8/05/09
I agree with alot of the things that were said above. On pages 133-134 Atticus is forced to talk to Jem about how he shouldn't be acting like run-of-the-mill children. Jem sholud be carrying on the family name for future generations, with a good and positive attitude. On page 134 Jem and scout go away and cry, they felt as though they had be been isolated and hurt in a way. They knew that Atticus couldn't think or say this on his own, Aunt Alexandra had some influence on him. In a way I think Aunt Alexandra thinks that she is doing the family a favor by like trying to be the motherly figure, sadly to say she is failing. The kids still go on and do there own things, without a care in the world. I agree with you Jessie, the only reason that Jem is changing is because he wants more freedom, but yet he is still young and looks up to his father Atticus for alot of things. The reason Atticus doesn't tell Aunt Alexandra to leave because he is to nice to do that. Even though the hint was probably there. Karen 10/05/09
I see Aunt Alexandra being "old-fashioned" whereas Atticus is modern and ahead of his time. Aunt Alexandra has a one track mind and stuck with traditions and Atticus is clearly open minded and open to almost anything. Aunt Alexandra doesn't want shame on the family name and she's afraid that might happen with Atticus' case with Tom Robinson and also the way he teaches his children, but i see it all as a matter of "point-of view". Michelle 10/05/09
I think that Aunt Alexandra is not as bad as people make her out to be. She probably agrees with many of Atticus' views but is just too scared to admit it to others for fear of being ostracized. She likes her place in Maycomb, and most likely feels like she would have no friends if she admitted to being against prejudice. This being said, I still agree that she is very old fashioned about matters not pertaining to racism, and I agree that she is the opposite of Atticus in this way. I also think that these chapters answer the discussion quesiton from a couple of weeks ago about if having a mother figure would help the Finch children grow up. The children definitely got by much better without Alexandra around. Emma 10/05/09
I also believe what Emma said about Aunt Alexandra being not as bad as people think she is and i do believe she will help the family i just think she's not doing it the way that would most benefit them. Aunts Alexandra sometimes confuses me with her decisions yet at the same time i can understand some of things shes done to try and help. jessie 10/05/09 10:18pm
Atticus is often portrayed as being a model of integrity and ethical conduct. How do you think this influences Scout and Jem? How do think the rest of the town feels about Atticus? What is your opinion of Atticus? Do you see him as a heroic character, or do you think that as he is part of a system which legislates racism (the State of Alabama) his ethical righteousness is compromised? Evan 27/04/09 17:44 pm
Atticus is a huge role model in Jem and Scout life. Atticus is always teaching his children, he teaches them differently than others in the community would have done. Atticus lets his two children Jem and Scout spread their wings to let them be the people or persons they want to be. On page 67 Atticus told Jem that, "He didn't know that he was going to do it, but from now on I'll never worry about what'll become of you, son, you'll always have an idea." Then Atticus suggested to Jem that he fix the snowman up a little bit. By adding some new features to kind of hide the fact that he making caricatures of the neighbours. So Atticus didn't get mad at Jem even though what his son was doing was wrong, what he simply did was guide him to a solution that would kind of cause him to learn
from his mistakes. On pages 100 -101 Mrs Dubose goes on about how Atticus raises his children wrong and lets them run wild. Mrs. Dubose questions the children whether or not their father knows they are downtown. Mrs Dubose does not agree or stand along side Atticus. In my opinion I see Atticus as being a good example to society, in fact even Jem thinks so. On page 99 Jem says, "Atticus(dad) is a gentlemen, just like me!". So obviously Jem and Scout looked at their father with respect, and they saw him as a good fatherly role model. On page 108, Scout goes on to tell his father what his cousin Francis and Mrs.Dubose had said about him. They called him a, "nigger lover". Atticus of course responded with a kind and open heart, he told Scout that he was most definatly a nigger lover, and that he did his best to love everyone. "It's never an insult to be called something that others think is bad, it just shows how poor that person is, it never hurts you." So I can't see Atticus as being a part of a system that legislates racism. I most definatly see Atticus as being a heroic character who isn't going to waver his beliefs just because the people in Maycomb think that he is weird and stupid and from another planet. Karen 30/04/09 8:09 PM
Atticus is a good role model for the children especially in the time the book was written. He choses to go against the grain for what he believes is right and is not bothered by what others in the town are saying about him. He tries to get Jem and Scout to ignore the comments made by others but Scout has a hard time hearing these things said about her father for example: p.83 "...Grandma says it's bad enough he lets you all run wild, but now he's turned out a nigger-lover we'll never be able to walk the streets of Maycomb agin. He's ruinin' the family, that's what he's doin'." Scout had no idea what Francis meant by this comment but she still got upset over it. That wasn't the only time he'd been called that, Mrs Dubose also made comments similar comments to the children about their father before her death . Like Karen said, Atticus responded to the comments in a very relaxed, calm way. This proves to me that he does what believes is best, no matter how much courage and strength it takes. Although many people in the book wouldn't, i do see Atticus as a heroic character, but with his situation, a heroic character who has a lot to prove to the people of Maycomb. Michelle 01/05/09 4:36pm
Although I agree with the points made, I have to say that Atticus' righteousness is somewhat compromised by the fact that he is part of the Alabama government. If he is so passionately opposed to what is happening in the Southern States during this time, he should not work for the people still legislating it. However, I can understand that he probably works as a lawyer to try and stop the racism happening in courts and give a fair trial to everyone. The quote "The one thing that doesn't abide by majority rule is a person's conscience" on page 105 goes to show that Atticus truly knows right from wrong and is above the prejudice happening in Maycomb. I see him not as a hero but as a good person. There is much more that he can be doing to help the situation. I do agree that Atticus influences Jem and Scout in a positive way. He helps them to develop proper morals and keeps them open-minded. The rest of the town is divided on their opinions of Atticus; the majority of the white community is against what he is doing as shown in Francis and Mrs. Dubose's quote from the above entries, while the black community applauds Atticus for his righteousness. We see this when Zeebo says "We're mighty glad to have you all here. Don't pay no 'tention to Lula..." on page 119 when they go to church with Calpurnia. Emma 01/05/09 10:56pm
I see that Atticus wanted the best for his family and for those in the community. You can see that in his actions and his attitude when problems arise. Yeah, sure Atticus may have had been high in power in society but he didn't let that affect his decisions. There was one passage in the book, I can't remember where it is but it went on to say that Atticus was the same at home as he was in the public. During this time when you have accusations being thrown towards you are this and that, it makes it alot harder to love and forgive someone. A busy man as Atticus was, he always made room for his children. As I said before, his children looked up at him as being a gentlemen. Even though others may have not seen him in the same point of view. Not everyone is going to love you and want to be your friend, and i believe that Atticus saw that and took everything, taking one step at a time. As said before, Atticus responded in a very relaxed,and calm way. Karen 02/05/09 11:26 AM
I think that for his time Atticus is probably quite forward thinking. Even though he does not really actively fight for racial equality (at least not in the same way as Martin Luther King for example), he does not hinder it. If the novel were set in the 1950's onward, Atticus' character would probably be more of an active opponent to racism. Retrospectively Atticus represents a natural and inevitable evolution towards the worldwide civil rights movement which appearred in the 50's. Therefore, probably his largest contribution to racial equality is through his children. If it were not for the next generation, Atticus' actions would have been futile. Evan 03/05/09 9:02 PM
I'd have to agree with Evan. It would have been out of place for Atticus to speak up about the injustices at this time. I think that Atticus really contributes towards the civil rights movement, and that Scout and Jem will probably pass on their values to their children in the future. Karen also made a good point when she said that Atticus does not let his high stature in the system affect his decisions. He does not abuse the privilege of his job by feeding the racism present in the Southern government. I agree that his children look up to him a large amount as well. Scout trusts his judgement a great deal. You can see this on pages 104 and 105 when Scout asks Atticus about his trial. She believes that Atticus knows what is right and listens well to what he says. Emma 03/05/09 10:00pm
I think that Atticus is a good role model and influences his children in the way that he teaches them his beliefs and opinions. Other people in the community may not agree with Atticus' ways, but his children respect him no matter what the towns folk say. In my opinion, Atticus is a well mannered gentlemen. He is nice to everyone and never says a bad thing about anyone. He brings his children up in the way he thinks is right, and will benifit them in the future. I think that he is a heroic character. He doesn't like being the center of attention, but if there is something he has to do, then he does it. Like the incident with the mad dog, he didn't want to shoot it, but he knew he had too. He doesn't go around trying to be a hero, but the actions he does makes him the hero. Jessie 03/05.09 11:40 PM
I also believe that Atticus was ahead of his time, if only the book were written a bit earlier then what it was, i know we would have seen Atticus become much more involved in fighting racism. I agree with Evan, he's teaching his children to love everyone and believe everyone should have equal rights so that, later on, his children will continue to teacher their children and grandchildren and so on.
Michelle 04/05/09
Girls back in the time that this novel was based were usually brought up to be quite proper, lady-like and feminine. Scout Finch is the complete opposite of that description. She's always playing with boys and getting into trouble. Most times she gets herself in trouble thanks to her big mouth. Why do you think that Scout behaves the way she does? Why do you think Atticus allows her to act like a tom-boy rather than a lady? Michelle 20/04/09 10:02pm
I think that Scout behaves this way because there is no motherly influence in her life. Her mother passed away when she was young. Atticus is a hardworking man that works full time, making it kind of hard for him to care about Scout. Scout is a strong willed girl who is not about to let anyone get the best of her. The only famale influence that is in Snouts life at home is Calpurnia the family cook/housekeeper. There was an incident that took place in pages 24 and 25 when Calpurnia took the whole situation into her hands when Atticus let it go. Scout lipped the guest that was over in an uncalled for way. Calpurnia punished her by making her eat her dinner away from everyone else. I also believe that Atticus doesn't deal with Snout the way he would Jem is because, he looks on the two differently. Scout probably reminds him of his wife that passed away a few years back. Scout also hangs around his brother Jem and his friends quite often, so there are someother possibilities why Scout acts the way she does.I am pretty sure she doesn't understand why people make a big deal about it, who knows. Karen 22/04/09 10:49pm
I think that a major contributing factor in Scout's unorthodox behaviour is her family. Since her mother died, and she has no sisters, she does not really have a female role model (except perhaps for Calpurnia). As for Atticus' permissive attitude towards her tom-boyliness, he seems to have a nonjudgemental, open minded approach to unusual people. Evan 22?/04/09
I believe another reason Scout acts the way she does is to fit in with Jem and Dill, and prove to them that even if she is a girl she can play with them. In addition to this, I think that she chooses to act tom-boyish because the females that she sees in her daily life are not to her liking. People look down on Miss Stephanie Crawford's gossiping and Scout really dislikes Miss Catherine (this is shown by Scout's anger and sadness after not being able to read in class on pages 29 and 30). I don't think that Atticus feels as if he is letting Scout act like a tom-boy but think that he is not very concerned with gender roles, and allows her to act as she pleases. Emma 22/04/09 10:25pm
I agree that Scout not having a mother figure in her life would be a big factor in the way she behaves and i know that Calpurnia is sometimes considered "motherly", although it is said that she is quite a bit more strict than a mother would be. Do you think that Scout would benefit from having a mother? Personally, i think that she would be a total different person if that were the case. Michelle 22/04/09 9:58pm
Although Scout can get by pretty well without having a mother, i think that she would really benefit from having one. Her and Atticus have a very formal relationship, and i think that it would really help for Scout to have someone to talk to about her problems. There are certainly many things she doesn't feel comfortable telling Atticus about, and her and Calpurnia are not close enough to really talk that much. I think that if Scout still had a mother, she would probably feel better about herself and be a generally happier person. However, if her mother was anything like Atticus, i would not expect her having a mother to help her to behave more like a "southern belle" though. Emma 25/04/09 3:22pm
I don't think that Scout would be terribly different if she had grown up with a mother. Her personality seems to be what steers her towards tom-boyishness rather than her upbringing. When you think about it, many of Scout's boyish attributes are in fact not present in Atticus. For example, Scout's approach to physical violence clearly was not influened in any way by Atticus. Evan 25/04/09 7:56:24 PM
I think the main influence on her behaviour is the fact that she wants attention from her father and her brother. Because her dad works and her brother is older and tends to ignore her a lot with dill she tries to act along with them to stay noticed. I also think the other reason has to do with there being no mother influence to help her act lady like adds to the fact she acts tom-boyish. jessie 26/04/09 5:42PM
I do also believe that Scout is getting by pretty good without a mother. Atticus and Scout never really have a hard time getting along with eachother, but maybe Scout would have a more feminine attitude with a mothers hand guiding her along the right road. Scout is still a young girl confused, and just wants to be noticed by her father and her brother Jem. She probalby feels left out and alone considering she is still young and when your in first grade there really is not much that a little girl like Scout can do. Scout just wants attention ,and when your young you will do anything to get that much needed attention. Even if you go to the far extreme and to be different. Karen 26/04/09 10:40PM
Michelle, Evan, Jessie, Karen, Emma
This novel is described as a coming-of-age story. Do you agree with this? Did you notice any changes in Scout throughout the course of this novel, in particular this week's section? Do you notice any similarities between Scout's childhood and your own? Also, since this is the last week, what are your overall impressions of the book? Emma 18.05.09I don't think that the novel is really a bildungsroman, as it is uses Scout's innocence and subsequent loss of innocence as a vehicle rather than the actual focal point of the story. The book is decent. It's a fairly unoriginal book, in terms of subject matter and use of language, but it probably does deserve the title "American Classic" because it seems to capture the mood and mores of the time. The best part was the contrasting characters.
I don't really agree with it being a coming of age story however I did notice changes in Scouts behaviour throughout the course of the novel, as it progressed she seemed to understand more what was going on around her and how to act approprietly during certain moments when which it was called for. I don't really notice very many similarities betweent scouts childhood and my own because I did not grow up around a dad or a brother and not in an environment like that due to now being a different time then back then. My overall impressions of the book was that it was pretty good and and very well written. Jessie 05/20/09 10:15pm
I agree with you Jessie I don't see this book as a something that will happen in the future (coming of age). Scouts behaviour changed quite a bit as we proceeded though the novel. Scout was introduced to us in the first six chapters of the novel she was ill mannered, unladylike, and a tomboy. Even though she was remained a tomboy throughout the novel, she grew into girlhood a little more. I was not like Scout at all when I was a child I was pretty well behave, but you know we all have had our times when we are ill mannered. I don't exactly see any similarities between my childhood and Scouts. My overall impressions of this book, is it was well written. I enjoyed the book and I actually wanted to sit down and read my chapters every week. It was full of conflict and action, and this novel kind of gave us an idea of what blacks went through years back.. Karen 05/21/09
I sort of do see this book as being a coming of age story, but more from the perspective of how times evolved and what happened throughout the story. Scout, to me, loses her innocence a fair bit because of all she sees and hears. Towards the end of the book we see her trying harder to be more lady-like and mature, mostly around her aunt and her aunt's friends. I really enjoyed this book, i'd been told that it was terrible and so on, but i loved it and i never got bored of it. So much happens throughout that it just makes you want to keep reading! Michelle 22/05/09
I have to agree that the main focus of the book was not Scout's growing up but more about prejudice and racial injustice. Scout's childhood was similar to my own in a sense what I was a bit of a tom-boy as a child but have mostly grown out of it. I noticed that by the end of the book Scout has lost most of her faith in the goodness of Maycomb County, but she never loses the good morals that Atticus teaches her. The most noticeable change in Scout's behaviour is when she joins Aunt Alexandra and her guests for tea. She really starts to give up on her tom-boy ways and adopt more feminine ones here. This book was probably the best novel I have read for a class, and I think I would have read it even if it was not required. It doesn't really stand out but I think it was written quite well and got its message across clearly. Emma 23/05/09
Scout's childhood was also similar to my own, only because i mostly played with boys. I have also changed my ways but i still have a bit of tom-boy left in me. i think if we could see Scout ten or so years later, i think you would find that she had be come more lady-like and feminine but also still had some tom-boy left in her as well. I was thinking it might be interesting if the author had written a book from one of the other character's perspectives, maybe Tom or Jem for example, just to see the situations through the eyes of someone other than Scout. But i still did throughly enjoy this novel. michelle 24/05/09
I did not think that I would enjoy reading this novel before I actaully started reading the book. I thought the author did a spectacular job describing the characters and the scenes as we progressed through the novel. I'd also been told that this was such a terrible book and so on, just like mitchelle said earlier. There is nothing wrong with this book. I enjoyed reading my chapters every week, probably one of the best books I have read for school. Karen 24/05/09
What is your opinon about the whole Tom Robinson trial? What do you think about what Mayella Ewell testified to the court? At what point did Atticus realize that Mayella Ewell was lying? What was the statement? Who do you think is the most honest person that spoke at the trial? Karen 11/04/09
My opinion on the Tom Robinson trial is that it was unfair from the beginning. Tom never had a chance and no one really listened, they just always assumed he was lying because of his skin colour. I find Mayella Ewells statements were forced and unbelievable and she seemed to hesitate when he asked if her father beat her which makes the reader assume something different then what she was saying. I also think he assumed she was lying when she couldn't reply if Tom Robinson had beat her on the face, at that point the book stated he lost his comfortableness and became detached and so on. I think the most believable was Tom Robinson himself because he answered all the questions and they made a lot of sense. He seemed like an honest and caring man and I just felt more sympathy for him. jessie 13/04/09 9:35pm
The results of the trail are fairly obvious right from the start. The segregation within the very courthouse show clearly how firmly entrenched racial inequity is in the minds of the people of Maycomb. It is pretty clear that Mayella and Bob Ewell have fabricated essentially the entire testimony. Tom Robinson and Heck Tate both appear to tell the truth. The courthouse sequence is the only scene where we really see anything of Tom. It seems to me he remains a flat character throughout the novel. Evan 14/05 20:50
Tom Robinson's trial made me very upset, although I do agree that it was obvious what would happen. Still, the idea that a very clearly innocent man was sent to jail simply because of his race is extremely troubling. Mayella Ewell's testament made me angry, but I can understand that she was is scared of her father and does not want him to continue beating her. I could tell she was lying the whole time, but it was especially clear on page 179 when she begins crying as soon as he asks her what happened. Both Tom Robinson and Heck Tate are very honest during the entire trial, and did not hesitate in their testimony. Emma 15/05/2009
Yes I agree with all of you Tom Robinsons trial is quite crazy, it is quite obvious that Mayella was lying. As Emma said on page 179, that she soon as she was asked what happened. Of course some people may say well, maybe she was emotional because it was hard for her to tell the story or something like that. The reason that Mayella was beaten and had a black eye was because Bob Ewell caught Tom Robinson leaving the house. I found it quite suspicious that Bob Ewell never called the doctor if his daughter claimed that she was raped, that does seem quite odd. The Tom Robinson's trial made me upset and dissappointed, cause they basically took the advice from a white free girl and fabricated and made this whole story up cause they knew that it would be possible to make people in the community believe that a black man like Tom Robinson would do such a crime. Tom Robinson when asked to come and testify and give his side of the story he gave it without hesitation. He explained how Mayella was coming onto him and he tried to get away, it was all Mayella. Mayella was the one with the lustful eyes, and he explained how he never pushed her, because Tom Robinson knew if he did that would be something that she could use against him. I think the reason that Mayella started this whole trial was because it was her dad that was beating her, and she didn't want to deal with it anymore. It was like she had taken this abuse for 19 years and it was about time that it come to an end. Mayella is going about it all the wrong ways to finding a solution. Karen Love 17/05/09 4:20 PM
I agree. The fact that no doctor was called is a very important part of the innocence of Tom Robinson. If anything had really happened between Tom and Mayella, Bob Ewell would certainly have called in a doctor. One thing I am very curious about regarding the trial is what Mayella is feeling during the whole thing. She probably cares a lot about Tom if she decided to risk her reputation by kissing him. Seeing Tom get convicted of a capital offense because of her cowardice must have a lot of effect on her. I don't think the author develops Mayella's character enough in this aspect, as I am left wondering. Emma 17.05.09
From the beginning of the trial i could almost see the direction the end result would take. With Mayella getting so emotional, someone back then who didn't know any better would probably have believed her, it was also in her favour that Tom Robinson is black. To me Bob Ewell answered the questions in such a way that it was obvious that he was lying. It is said that he isn't exactly the brightest star in the sky but all that but aside, his answers weren't nearly as well thought out as Tom's. Tom's actually made sense through out the whole trial. The only part where i can see the jury actually finding something to put against him is the fact that he ran away. Although, if i was an african-american in that time, i would have run too. Michelle 17/05/09
I think Atticus knew Mayella was lying when he asked "Then why didn't the other children hear you? Where were they? At the Dump?". Mayella did not respond to the questions whatsoever. Then he asked "Did you scream first at your father instead of at Tom Robinson? Was that it?". Still no answer. Then finally Atticus came right out and asked if it was her father that had beaten her and not Tom Robinson. The author says that Mayella's face was a mixture of terror and fury which leads Atticus to believe she is lying. Michelle 17/05/09
Mayella to me seems to be a tragic character. I think she sees Tom Robinson as a legitimate sacrifice to protect her dignity in the eyes of the community (if there is any to begin with). The situation is not her fault, and in terms of testifying against an innocent [black] man, she is doing what just about anyone else in the community would do. Atticus says that "The one thing that doesn’t abide by majority rule is a person’s conscience" in Chapter 11, but this is not really a fair assessment, as people are more or less a product of their environment.
When Aunt Alexandra moves in with the Finch's do you think she really wants to be there or do you think she thinks she needs to be there to make sure the Finch children grow up properly? Do you think it will make a good difference with the children or do you think it will not make a difference at all towards the behaviour of both Finch children? jessie 05/04/09 11: 00pm
I don't think Aunt Alexandra wants to be there so much as she feels she needs to be there. From what i gather, she strongly feels the need to turn Scout into more of a lady and break her boy-like habits. Also i think she feels she needs to teach the children who they are and where they come from. She brings over family members that Scout did not even know existed. For example on page 132 when Aunt Alexandra tells Scout to say hello to her cousin Lily and Scout has no idea that they are even related. Her being there,i think, will not change the children but give them more of a sense of the Finch family and what it means to be a Finch. Michelle 06/05/09
In my opinion I do see Aunt Alexandra as being the type of person that just wants to intervene in other peoples business. Really she doesn't have this right. I don't think that Aunt Alexandra really wants to be at the Finches house, she may think that she is doing some good but really her presence at the Finch household has no meaning. I think maybe Attticus might of had been offended when Aunt Alexandra tried to come and tell him how to raise his children. I would of had been, if I were him. Well in chapter 13 it explains how Aunt Alexandra was like a perfect child and grew up in a very strict home. She had a good education and she spoke only when spoken to. That was what she expected from Scout and nothing other. Thatwas the main reason why she cam to the Finch's household. Honestly I don't believe that having Aunt Alexandra over made that much of a difference, well only in the sense that she would know who is related to her. I agree with the person who posted above, the only thing that would change is the Finch's would have an understanding of what it means to be a Finch. Karen 7/05/2009
I think that Alexandra is there of her own volition, even though she doesn't actually want to be there. She thinks that she is doing what has to be done. I don't think that this will really affect Scout, but it does seem to have some effect on Jem. Evan 7/05/2009
Aunt Alexandra was definitely not invited over to the Finch house, but I don't think that Atticus would ever tell her to leave. She probably thinks that they need her help and that she is doing them a big favour. I do not think that she is much help, mainly because her version of a good family image is much different than mine. I agree that Jem seems to begin to change his ways in favour of Aunt Alexandra, but Scout does not listen to her whatsoever. She knows that Alexandra is behind all of the discussions that Atticus has with her about their reputation. We see this on page 134 when Scout says "My father never thought these thoughts. My father never spoke so. Aunt Alexandra had put him up to this, somehow." I think that Aunt Alexandra will have the opposite effect that she desires on Scout and will cause Scout to go out of her way to be more of a tom-boy as a rebellion towards her. Emma 7/05/2009 10:06
I agree with a lot of things that were said above. Aunt Alexandra seems like she is there because she thinks its her duty to teach the children better behaviour and be there to play the female role which thinks has been missing, oblivious to calpurnia being there in the picture. I don't think it will change the Finch's too much considering they don't really want her to be there so i think it will make them be more rebellious too. The reason i think Jem has changed is because hes older and and he looks up to Atticus, not because of Aunt Alexandra being there. He respects Atticus who respects Aunt Alexandra so he follows his fathers lead and wants to seem more mature and grown up, also because hes getting older hes understanding more how to treat people and women and the meaning of respect. I don't think Scout will really ever change because she's so stubborn, but I don't think she will be so rude to her aunt later because she too respects her father and even her brother. Like you all said it will help them learn more about the Finch's and i think thats one of the good things that coming out of her being there so far. jessie 07/05/09 11:43pm
I think that in the story Alexandra represents many of the values which Atticus is trying to change. Her entire persona is entrenched in the archetypal southern woman. Her belief in the importance of old families and old land contrasts starkly with Scout's and Atticus' outlook on life. She clearly disapproves of most of the things Atticus does, and the things he teaches to his children. Evan 8/05/09
I agree with alot of the things that were said above. On pages 133-134 Atticus is forced to talk to Jem about how he shouldn't be acting like run-of-the-mill children. Jem sholud be carrying on the family name for future generations, with a good and positive attitude. On page 134 Jem and scout go away and cry, they felt as though they had be been isolated and hurt in a way. They knew that Atticus couldn't think or say this on his own, Aunt Alexandra had some influence on him. In a way I think Aunt Alexandra thinks that she is doing the family a favor by like trying to be the motherly figure, sadly to say she is failing. The kids still go on and do there own things, without a care in the world. I agree with you Jessie, the only reason that Jem is changing is because he wants more freedom, but yet he is still young and looks up to his father Atticus for alot of things. The reason Atticus doesn't tell Aunt Alexandra to leave because he is to nice to do that. Even though the hint was probably there. Karen 10/05/09
I see Aunt Alexandra being "old-fashioned" whereas Atticus is modern and ahead of his time. Aunt Alexandra has a one track mind and stuck with traditions and Atticus is clearly open minded and open to almost anything. Aunt Alexandra doesn't want shame on the family name and she's afraid that might happen with Atticus' case with Tom Robinson and also the way he teaches his children, but i see it all as a matter of "point-of view". Michelle 10/05/09
I think that Aunt Alexandra is not as bad as people make her out to be. She probably agrees with many of Atticus' views but is just too scared to admit it to others for fear of being ostracized. She likes her place in Maycomb, and most likely feels like she would have no friends if she admitted to being against prejudice. This being said, I still agree that she is very old fashioned about matters not pertaining to racism, and I agree that she is the opposite of Atticus in this way. I also think that these chapters answer the discussion quesiton from a couple of weeks ago about if having a mother figure would help the Finch children grow up. The children definitely got by much better without Alexandra around. Emma 10/05/09
I also believe what Emma said about Aunt Alexandra being not as bad as people think she is and i do believe she will help the family i just think she's not doing it the way that would most benefit them. Aunts Alexandra sometimes confuses me with her decisions yet at the same time i can understand some of things shes done to try and help. jessie 10/05/09 10:18pm
Atticus is often portrayed as being a model of integrity and ethical conduct. How do you think this influences Scout and Jem? How do think the rest of the town feels about Atticus? What is your opinion of Atticus? Do you see him as a heroic character, or do you think that as he is part of a system which legislates racism (the State of Alabama) his ethical righteousness is compromised? Evan 27/04/09 17:44 pm
Atticus is a huge role model in Jem and Scout life. Atticus is always teaching his children, he teaches them differently than others in the community would have done. Atticus lets his two children Jem and Scout spread their wings to let them be the people or persons they want to be. On page 67 Atticus told Jem that, "He didn't know that he was going to do it, but from now on I'll never worry about what'll become of you, son, you'll always have an idea." Then Atticus suggested to Jem that he fix the snowman up a little bit. By adding some new features to kind of hide the fact that he making caricatures of the neighbours. So Atticus didn't get mad at Jem even though what his son was doing was wrong, what he simply did was guide him to a solution that would kind of cause him to learn
from his mistakes. On pages 100 -101 Mrs Dubose goes on about how Atticus raises his children wrong and lets them run wild. Mrs. Dubose questions the children whether or not their father knows they are downtown. Mrs Dubose does not agree or stand along side Atticus. In my opinion I see Atticus as being a good example to society, in fact even Jem thinks so. On page 99 Jem says, "Atticus(dad) is a gentlemen, just like me!". So obviously Jem and Scout looked at their father with respect, and they saw him as a good fatherly role model. On page 108, Scout goes on to tell his father what his cousin Francis and Mrs.Dubose had said about him. They called him a, "nigger lover". Atticus of course responded with a kind and open heart, he told Scout that he was most definatly a nigger lover, and that he did his best to love everyone. "It's never an insult to be called something that others think is bad, it just shows how poor that person is, it never hurts you." So I can't see Atticus as being a part of a system that legislates racism. I most definatly see Atticus as being a heroic character who isn't going to waver his beliefs just because the people in Maycomb think that he is weird and stupid and from another planet. Karen 30/04/09 8:09 PM
Atticus is a good role model for the children especially in the time the book was written. He choses to go against the grain for what he believes is right and is not bothered by what others in the town are saying about him. He tries to get Jem and Scout to ignore the comments made by others but Scout has a hard time hearing these things said about her father for example: p.83 "...Grandma says it's bad enough he lets you all run wild, but now he's turned out a nigger-lover we'll never be able to walk the streets of Maycomb agin. He's ruinin' the family, that's what he's doin'." Scout had no idea what Francis meant by this comment but she still got upset over it. That wasn't the only time he'd been called that, Mrs Dubose also made comments similar comments to the children about their father before her death . Like Karen said, Atticus responded to the comments in a very relaxed, calm way. This proves to me that he does what believes is best, no matter how much courage and strength it takes. Although many people in the book wouldn't, i do see Atticus as a heroic character, but with his situation, a heroic character who has a lot to prove to the people of Maycomb. Michelle 01/05/09 4:36pm
Although I agree with the points made, I have to say that Atticus' righteousness is somewhat compromised by the fact that he is part of the Alabama government. If he is so passionately opposed to what is happening in the Southern States during this time, he should not work for the people still legislating it. However, I can understand that he probably works as a lawyer to try and stop the racism happening in courts and give a fair trial to everyone. The quote "The one thing that doesn't abide by majority rule is a person's conscience" on page 105 goes to show that Atticus truly knows right from wrong and is above the prejudice happening in Maycomb. I see him not as a hero but as a good person. There is much more that he can be doing to help the situation. I do agree that Atticus influences Jem and Scout in a positive way. He helps them to develop proper morals and keeps them open-minded. The rest of the town is divided on their opinions of Atticus; the majority of the white community is against what he is doing as shown in Francis and Mrs. Dubose's quote from the above entries, while the black community applauds Atticus for his righteousness. We see this when Zeebo says "We're mighty glad to have you all here. Don't pay no 'tention to Lula..." on page 119 when they go to church with Calpurnia. Emma 01/05/09 10:56pm
I see that Atticus wanted the best for his family and for those in the community. You can see that in his actions and his attitude when problems arise. Yeah, sure Atticus may have had been high in power in society but he didn't let that affect his decisions. There was one passage in the book, I can't remember where it is but it went on to say that Atticus was the same at home as he was in the public. During this time when you have accusations being thrown towards you are this and that, it makes it alot harder to love and forgive someone. A busy man as Atticus was, he always made room for his children. As I said before, his children looked up at him as being a gentlemen. Even though others may have not seen him in the same point of view. Not everyone is going to love you and want to be your friend, and i believe that Atticus saw that and took everything, taking one step at a time. As said before, Atticus responded in a very relaxed,and calm way. Karen 02/05/09 11:26 AM
I think that for his time Atticus is probably quite forward thinking. Even though he does not really actively fight for racial equality (at least not in the same way as Martin Luther King for example), he does not hinder it. If the novel were set in the 1950's onward, Atticus' character would probably be more of an active opponent to racism. Retrospectively Atticus represents a natural and inevitable evolution towards the worldwide civil rights movement which appearred in the 50's. Therefore, probably his largest contribution to racial equality is through his children. If it were not for the next generation, Atticus' actions would have been futile. Evan 03/05/09 9:02 PM
I'd have to agree with Evan. It would have been out of place for Atticus to speak up about the injustices at this time. I think that Atticus really contributes towards the civil rights movement, and that Scout and Jem will probably pass on their values to their children in the future. Karen also made a good point when she said that Atticus does not let his high stature in the system affect his decisions. He does not abuse the privilege of his job by feeding the racism present in the Southern government. I agree that his children look up to him a large amount as well. Scout trusts his judgement a great deal. You can see this on pages 104 and 105 when Scout asks Atticus about his trial. She believes that Atticus knows what is right and listens well to what he says. Emma 03/05/09 10:00pm
I think that Atticus is a good role model and influences his children in the way that he teaches them his beliefs and opinions. Other people in the community may not agree with Atticus' ways, but his children respect him no matter what the towns folk say. In my opinion, Atticus is a well mannered gentlemen. He is nice to everyone and never says a bad thing about anyone. He brings his children up in the way he thinks is right, and will benifit them in the future. I think that he is a heroic character. He doesn't like being the center of attention, but if there is something he has to do, then he does it. Like the incident with the mad dog, he didn't want to shoot it, but he knew he had too. He doesn't go around trying to be a hero, but the actions he does makes him the hero. Jessie 03/05.09 11:40 PM
I also believe that Atticus was ahead of his time, if only the book were written a bit earlier then what it was, i know we would have seen Atticus become much more involved in fighting racism. I agree with Evan, he's teaching his children to love everyone and believe everyone should have equal rights so that, later on, his children will continue to teacher their children and grandchildren and so on.
Michelle 04/05/09
Girls back in the time that this novel was based were usually brought up to be quite proper, lady-like and feminine. Scout Finch is the complete opposite of that description. She's always playing with boys and getting into trouble. Most times she gets herself in trouble thanks to her big mouth. Why do you think that Scout behaves the way she does? Why do you think Atticus allows her to act like a tom-boy rather than a lady? Michelle 20/04/09 10:02pm
I think that Scout behaves this way because there is no motherly influence in her life. Her mother passed away when she was young. Atticus is a hardworking man that works full time, making it kind of hard for him to care about Scout. Scout is a strong willed girl who is not about to let anyone get the best of her. The only famale influence that is in Snouts life at home is Calpurnia the family cook/housekeeper. There was an incident that took place in pages 24 and 25 when Calpurnia took the whole situation into her hands when Atticus let it go. Scout lipped the guest that was over in an uncalled for way. Calpurnia punished her by making her eat her dinner away from everyone else. I also believe that Atticus doesn't deal with Snout the way he would Jem is because, he looks on the two differently. Scout probably reminds him of his wife that passed away a few years back. Scout also hangs around his brother Jem and his friends quite often, so there are someother possibilities why Scout acts the way she does.I am pretty sure she doesn't understand why people make a big deal about it, who knows. Karen 22/04/09 10:49pmI think that a major contributing factor in Scout's unorthodox behaviour is her family. Since her mother died, and she has no sisters, she does not really have a female role model (except perhaps for Calpurnia). As for Atticus' permissive attitude towards her tom-boyliness, he seems to have a nonjudgemental, open minded approach to unusual people. Evan 22?/04/09
I believe another reason Scout acts the way she does is to fit in with Jem and Dill, and prove to them that even if she is a girl she can play with them. In addition to this, I think that she chooses to act tom-boyish because the females that she sees in her daily life are not to her liking. People look down on Miss Stephanie Crawford's gossiping and Scout really dislikes Miss Catherine (this is shown by Scout's anger and sadness after not being able to read in class on pages 29 and 30). I don't think that Atticus feels as if he is letting Scout act like a tom-boy but think that he is not very concerned with gender roles, and allows her to act as she pleases. Emma 22/04/09 10:25pm
I agree that Scout not having a mother figure in her life would be a big factor in the way she behaves and i know that Calpurnia is sometimes considered "motherly", although it is said that she is quite a bit more strict than a mother would be. Do you think that Scout would benefit from having a mother? Personally, i think that she would be a total different person if that were the case. Michelle 22/04/09 9:58pm
Although Scout can get by pretty well without having a mother, i think that she would really benefit from having one. Her and Atticus have a very formal relationship, and i think that it would really help for Scout to have someone to talk to about her problems. There are certainly many things she doesn't feel comfortable telling Atticus about, and her and Calpurnia are not close enough to really talk that much. I think that if Scout still had a mother, she would probably feel better about herself and be a generally happier person. However, if her mother was anything like Atticus, i would not expect her having a mother to help her to behave more like a "southern belle" though. Emma 25/04/09 3:22pm
I don't think that Scout would be terribly different if she had grown up with a mother. Her personality seems to be what steers her towards tom-boyishness rather than her upbringing. When you think about it, many of Scout's boyish attributes are in fact not present in Atticus. For example, Scout's approach to physical violence clearly was not influened in any way by Atticus. Evan 25/04/09 7:56:24 PM
I think the main influence on her behaviour is the fact that she wants attention from her father and her brother. Because her dad works and her brother is older and tends to ignore her a lot with dill she tries to act along with them to stay noticed. I also think the other reason has to do with there being no mother influence to help her act lady like adds to the fact she acts tom-boyish. jessie 26/04/09 5:42PM
I do also believe that Scout is getting by pretty good without a mother. Atticus and Scout never really have a hard time getting along with eachother, but maybe Scout would have a more feminine attitude with a mothers hand guiding her along the right road. Scout is still a young girl confused, and just wants to be noticed by her father and her brother Jem. She probalby feels left out and alone considering she is still young and when your in first grade there really is not much that a little girl like Scout can do. Scout just wants attention ,and when your young you will do anything to get that much needed attention. Even if you go to the far extreme and to be different. Karen 26/04/09 10:40PM